March is Problem Gambling Awareness Month
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Pictured from left to right: Ken, Brooke, and Bryan, some of our Signature Health counselors who are specially trained in treating problem gambling.
For many people, March is a time for new beginnings. Temperatures start to climb, we spring our clocks forward, and Spring is on the horizon. However, for some, specifically those who struggle with sports betting and problem gambling behaviors, March signals the start of March Madness, the widely viewed NCAA Division I Men’s Basketball Tournament, and can be a time for falling back into old problematic gambling behaviors.
We sat down with some of our counselors at Signature Health who are specially trained in treating problem gambling to discuss what problem gambling is, how sports betting relates to problem gambling, and some tips and tricks to help combat problem gambling behaviors, especially during large-scale sporting events like March Madness.
What does problem gambling look like?
Gambling behavior occurs on a continuum. For some people, it can be a harmless pastime, but for others, gambling presents more of a concern. Signs of a problem gambling disorder may include:
- Betting more often or with more money, oftentimes to make up for previous losses
- Hiding gambling behavior from friends and family
- Withdrawing from relationships
- Borrowing money to relieve financial distress
- Legal or financial trouble because of gambling
- Feeling anxious, stressed, depressed or suicidal due to gambling behavior
Historically, legal gambling has been done in areas like Las Vegas or Atlantic City. However, with over 14 active sports betting apps in Ohio, it is now easier than ever before to place bets right from your phone anywhere at any time. This ease of access, along with incentives that these apps offer, are enticing even those without a history with gambling to give it a try.
Tips to Help Combat Problem Gambling Behavior
1. Set Limits
Most all sports betting apps allow you to set daily, weekly, or monthly limits that you can set in terms of the amount of money you can bet or the amount of time you can spend on the app. If you want to increase these limits after they have been set, you often must first wait until the limit that you previously set expires. This is sometimes called a “cooldown” period.
2. Be Mindful
Reflect while you are watching a game or sporting event and be honest with yourself about the reason you’re watching. Ask yourself, “Am I watching this game to see if my bets are going to hit and see what it’s doing to my bank account, or am I watching this game because I enjoy the sport, and I want to see if my team is going to win?” Self-awareness is key!
3. If you need help, talk to others!
There are many resources available to those struggling with problem gambling. Signature Health offers:
- Problem gambling assessments for new and established patients
- Problem gambling treatment including individual and virtual group therapy
- A growing team of counselors who have specialized training in treating problem gambling disorder
To establish services with Signature Health, call 440-578-8200, live chat with a patient services representative, or schedule online to be seen for a new patient assessment appointment.
Other Resources
Gamblers Anonymous Ohio Hotline
855-2CALLGA (855-222-5542)
National Problem Gambling Helpline
Call: 1-800-GAMBLER
Text: 800GAM (800426)